Educational

Victorian learning programme

Children from schools across Devon and Cornwall have been enjoying a taste of Victorian life at Powderham Castle, the 600 year old family home of the Earl & Countess of Devon located just outside Exeter. To date almost 5000 children from 157 schools have transformed themselves into Victorian children and stepped through the doors of the Castle to spend a day on work experience as a member of the household staff – Victorian style!

They come dressed up as Victorian children and have a go at different household tasks with the Housekeeper, such as carpet beating, boot polishing and dusting. They also spend time with the cook, making griddle cakes and finding out where the ingredients come from. All the time they will be learning about the progress we have made today and how tough life was in the Victorian times for most people.

The 600 year old home of the Earl of Devon provides the ideal setting for children to bring their Victorian learning to life.

They will make comparisons between lifestyles through interactive sessions and hands-on activities with our Housekeeper and Cook in our Victorian Kitchen and Servants Hall.

The price is £6.50 per child. We are able to run this type of educational visit with a minimum of 30 children (or £175) and a maximum of 52.

For more information and to check a suitable date please contact Jenny Ellis 01626 890243 or email [email protected]

VICTORIAN KITCHEN PROJECT

We are thrilled to have successfully been awarded a Heritage Lottery Fund grant to renovate the Victorian Kitchens and Servants Hall for visitors and school groups.

For the first time, the story of ordinary people who worked in the Earl's household will be told. The household continues to be made up of people like us living in the local area. The project is an opportunity for the people who worked so hard during the Victorian era to receive recognition and to celebrate our shared heritage.

Powderham Castle is a unique and majestic place that encompasses everything from art and history to tourism and agriculture. There are lots of ways in which all types of visitor can learn about the Castle and its environs, it's collections, the people who have lived and worked here and those who maintain it today.

We are very happy to tailor our tours to suit your learning objectives. Please contact us to talk through your requirements.

Keep in touch

Email *

Be in the know about all that is happening here at Powderham.

About

Powderham Castle enjoys a unique, picturesque setting within an ancient deer park beside the Exe estuary, just south of Exeter. Over 600 years of history can be discovered within the walls of one of Devon's oldest family homes. Powderham came to the Courtenay family in the dowry of Edward I’s granddaughter, and her son, Sir Philip Courtenay, began building the Castle in 1391. It has remained in the family to this day, and recently became home to the new Earl & Countess of Devon, the 28th generation to move in. The magical setting and convenient location makes Powderham the perfect venue for your special event, be it a wedding or business function. For locals and visitors to Devon it is a 'must see' and with its many attractions - a wonderful family day out!